The Ridge Employability College, Doncaster

What is it like to be a learner with this provider?

Learners successfully develop their knowledge, skills and behaviours during their time at the college and are prepared well for adulthood and employment. Most progress to positive destinations, including voluntary work, employment and further study.

Learners become more competent and confident during their time at the college. Teaching staff use their knowledge and expertise well to provide learning that is effective in promoting and facilitating learners' knowledge and skills development, including their English and mathematical skills. English tutors successfully develop learners' reading skills, so that learners become more confident in interpreting information. Learners make good progress in developing their skills in mathematics lessons and apply and strengthen these skills in their vocational lessons. For example, learners in horticulture use simple ratios to mix plant food.

What does the provider do well and what does it need to do better?

Leaders have developed a curriculum which meets learners' individual needs and support requirements. Learners study an employability programme that provides them with education, training and support to develop the skills and knowledge needed for employment in vocational areas such as hairdressing, horticulture and dog grooming. The curriculum also includes English, mathematics, information technology and external work experience. In addition, learners take part in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, which helps to develop their personal, social and communication skills, improves their confidence and enhances their preparation for employment.

The curriculum is logically planned and appropriately sequenced to enable learners to develop key knowledge and skills progressively through a range of classroom and work-based learning. For example, learners in horticulture first learn how to use a range of tools safely, including shears and secateurs, and the importance of wearing the appropriate personal protective clothing. As they progress, they develop their knowledge and skills by learning how use tools to process compost safely, plant seedlings and maintain various fruits and vegetables.

Leadership & management.

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